It’s surprising to think that the basis for a pioneering cancer treatment lies at the bottom of the ocean but a new breakthrough to provide assistance for cancer patients suggests just that. When it comes to prostate cancer, the course of treatment is often much different than with other types of cancer. If doctors determine cancerous cells in the prostate are at high risk for spreading, they often will operate to remove the entire prostate gland; though it may be effective, it’s an operation that leaves the patient at risk for complications like impotence or incontinence. Otherwise, if doctors think the cancer is not likely to spread, patients are placed under surveillance. They’ll be monitored frequently to make sure the cancer hasn’t grown or changed, and, even though it may not, the process can be a mentally taxing one. Now, scientists are also considering another option. Researchers at University College London have developed a drug made from bacteria found on the ocean floor. Such bacteria converts light into energy which, in this case, is used to attack cancer cells. The drug is injected directly into the bloodstream and then activated with a laser directed at the prostate. Of 400 men enrolled in the study, the cancer progressed in 58 percent of those under surveillance, compared with 28 percent of men who underwent the new therapy. Scientists suggested that the therapy may offer the most assistance for cancer patients who are in the mid-level range of risk. Though the treatment still has a long way to go before it gets full approval, these are promising results that could revamp the...

Cancer care can be a physical, emotional and mental burden — and a financial one. The cost of cancer depends on many factors, including: the type of cancer the stage at which it is identified the course of treatment the patient’s insurance Financial resources for cancer patients certainly exist, but vary depending on these and other aspects. For instance, colorectal cancer is often treated with oral chemotherapy and, if needed, radiation therapy. Oral drugs often come with steep copays and are used longer than other treatments, meaning the patient has to be making payments for a longer period of time. A treatment of oral chemo can cost a patient about $10,000, a number that continues to grow annually; a few decades ago, such a treatment typically only cost patients a few hundred dollars. Also on the rise is medication costs. As more effective drugs hit the market, patients often are on pill regimens longer — meaning more financial burden — and the drug prices jump to cover the cost of the research. It’s essential that individuals looking for financial resources for cancer patients understand all of the factors at play before deciding on a financial course of action. Whether it’s speaking to financial consultants at your cancer-care center or taking advantage of programs like Life Credit’s living benefit loan, there are ways to cut the costs and concentrate on surviving and thriving. Life Credit CompanyWe are a licensed consumer lender that is dedicated to providing financial assistance for patients who are facing serious illness. With a Living Benefit Loan, from Life Credit Company, you can receive up to 50%...

Many people struggling to control their weight have been taught to follow the guide, “Eat to live, not live to eat.” While that proposal may hold true for those trying to shed some pounds, its spirit can also offer help for cancer patients looking to nourish their body and their health. So, what can cancer patients do to make their dishes more health-friendly? Greens, greens and more greens Most of us heard the value of green veggies since we were young and, though we may have stubbornly refused them, there is significant benefit to incorporating green vegetables into our diets, especially for cancer patients. Vegetables known as “cruciferous,” which offer lots of fiber and vitamins with few calories, are particularly good in fighting cancer. Such veggies include Brussels sprouts, arugula, collard greens and broccoli. According to the National Cancer Institute, cruciferous vegetables include chemicals called glucosinolates, which, when broken down during digestion, have been shown to prevent cancer. Spice it up Adding a few pinches of some additives and spices can infuse a dish with flavor and also provide help for cancer patients’ health. A report in KXLY found that herbs such as thyme, oregano and basil are rich in fatty acids that can target and kill cancer cells. Another common cooking herb, parsley, functions to restrict the delivery of nutrients from blood vessels to the cancer cells, while garlic regulates insulin, which promotes cancer prevention. For dessert, add some ginger or cinnamon, or even top your ice cream with walnuts, all of which have been shown to be effective in preventing or slowing cancer growth (and they taste...